Postpartum Recovery

When I was pregnant with my firstborn, Baylen, I remember reading and learning all I could about labor and delivery, so I had some idea about what to expect. The fear of the unknown prompted me to ask many questions so I could be as prepared as possible. I didn’t, however, spend much time thinking about recovering after the baby was out. In my mind, the finish line was hearing that sweet cry of the newborn, and I was pretty oblivious to the fact that my body would take weeks to heal afterward.

My recovery with Baylen took quite a while. This time around, my body is bouncing back much faster, and I think a substantial reason why is the hospital I delivered at takes a very therapeutic approach to healing. They really pamper their moms, and offer little things that made my stay there feel a bit like spending time at the spa. They offer acupuncture, massages, healing touch, and oversized bathtubs in each suite for soaking.

I hopped in the tub as soon as possible after delivery and was given several cups of epsom salt by my sweet nurse. She encouraged me to use as much as I wanted, and told me that it helped with swelling, cramping, and relieves stress. After soaking for a few minutes, I honestly could tell a huge difference, and have been taking epsom baths daily ever since. It’s my new go-to when I need a boost. I also learned that there are many additional benefits to epsom baths! I would highly encourage all new mommies and anyone else to give it a try.

Before I left I also opted to have acupuncture done. The acupuncturist told me there are special pressure points to help with lactation, and since I need to produce for two I thought it couldn’t hurt! She also said it would help me with swelling and pain. This was my first experience with acupuncture and I was a little nervous going into it, but I ended up enjoying it. After the pins were in, I was told to relax and ended up falling asleep until she came back to remove them. It was a lovely 20 minute retreat!

All this to say, it is so important for mommies to take time to recover after giving birth so that we’re as ready as possible to give so much love to our kids. Since we brought our twins home a week ago my days have been nonstop. However, I’ve been trying my best to sneak in a few minutes here or there for me time (outside of taking naps). After the kids are in their cribs for the night, I high-tail it to a hot bath, which is usually accompanied by a half glass of wine. It’s pure bliss, I tell you! The little things keep me going! To all you mommies to be out there, please remember to take care of yourselves in those early days. It makes such a difference and allows you to keep perspective and love your little one(s) all the more! No mommy guilt allowed!

Question: Mommies, what things did you do to take care of yourself post delivery?

P.S. For more reflections on parenthood and life, follow us on Facebook (Hun Let’s Run) and on Instagram: @ambermariekuiper and @jakekuiper! We’d also love for you to subscribe to our Hun, Let’s Run Podcast! For more info about joining our fitness community as a customer or coach, please email us at amber@mommysmetime.com!